FRACTIONS


Comparing Fractions with Unlike Denominators

When Fractions have Different Denominators,

those Fractions must first be changed to Fractions with

Like Denominators.




 3

 4 		 5

 8

To change these fractions to like denominators, first find

the least common denominator.


The least common denominator of 4 and 8 is 8.




Divide the least common denominator of the fractions

by the denominator of the first fraction.

3

4
 8 ÷ 4 = 2




Then multiply both the numerator and the denominator of the

first fraction by that same number.

 3    x    2    =

 4    x    2    =		  6

 8




Do the same for the second fraction.

 5

 8

8 ÷ 8 = 1



 5    x    1    =

 8    x    1    =		  5

 8




With like denominators, the two fractions can now be compared.


 6

 8

is greater than
 5

 8






therefore
 3

 4

is greater than
 5

 8




RULE

Comparing Fractions with Unlike Denominators
First find the Least Common Denominator.

Then change those Fractions to Fractions with Like Denominators.